NYSBDC 2025 Neighorhood Business of the Year Award

The Pace University Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is proud to announce that our client, Liz's Book Bar, has been honored with the NYSBDC 2025 Neighborhood Business of the Year award.

This award celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit of business owners who are making a meaningful impact in their industries and communities. Founded by Maura Cheeks, Liz’s Book Bar has quickly become more than a bookstore, it is a vibrant cultural hub, blending a love for literature with a welcoming space where readers gather, connect, and share stories.

Working with the Pace SBDC, Liz’s Book Bar received support in business planning, marketing strategy, and navigating funding opportunities that positioned the business for sustainable growth. This recognition underscores both Maura’s creativity and dedication, as well as the vital role small businesses play in strengthening neighborhoods across New York City.

The award was presented during a special ceremony featuring brief remarks from US Small Business Administration (SBA) Regional Administrator Matt Coleman, NYS State Senator Andrew Gounardes, NYS Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon, and NYSBDC State Director Sonya Smith, who personally presented Maura Cheeks with the NYSBDC 2025 Neighborhood Business of the Year award. Representatives from the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce and Accompany Capital were also in attendance, highlighting the broad network of support for local entrepreneurs.

We congratulate Maura and the entire Liz’s Book Bar team on this well-deserved honor and look forward to supporting their continued success.

For more information on how we can help your business, visit our website or contact us at sbdc@pace.edu. The Pace University Small Business Development Center is a team of business counselors helping New York City’s entrepreneurs build, sustain, and grow successful small businesses. To make an appointment with a certified business advisor, contact us via our website or email sbdc@pace.edu.